I spent years building a 'perfect' life and career in Chicago. Then, I left it all behind to move to Portugal.

Marissa Liesenfelt, once a chief operating officer in Chicago, left behind her career, house and car to move to Portugal. Despite her success, she felt unfulfilled and unhappy. After several trips abroad, she realized she had built exactly what she was afraid of losing. Concerns about financial security, disappointing her mother, and starting over in a foreign country held her back.

However, after consulting a therapist, she decided to move to Lisbon, putting all her belongings in storage and leaving in April 2023 with two suitcases and a one-way ticket.

Impressed by Lisbon, she soon moved to Bodrum, Turkey, where she found an apartment that matched her wishes. Telling people about her decision was difficult, but her mother eventually supported her, and her boss provided valuable assistance. She navigated the visa process and focused on building her new life, eventually joining expat communities, attending events, and making new friends.

Marissa's social life flourished in Lisbon, surpassing her expectations. She reunited with her mother, who had never visited while they lived close together, and they began taking trips together.

Three years later, Marissa is starting a new chapter in Amsterdam, feeling more confident and excited than ever before. She credits her courage and forward momentum for overcoming her fears and regrets spending too many years waiting.